Replacing a Bottom Hardie Siding Strip
Hardie siding is pretty tough, especially where each strip supports the lower edge of the one over it. The bottom strip is however unsupported at the lower edge. A carelessly pushed lawnmower can bump and break it. We describe replacing a bottom Hardie siding strip damaged in this and most any other way.
Replacing a Bottom Hardie Siding Strip – Preparation
Removing a bottom strip of siding is pretty straightforward compared to working on a piece with others above and below. First, you have to carefully remove any old paint and caulk that might cause it to stick to the one above.
Hardie siding can be brittle when you knock an exposed edge. Be careful at this stage, or else you might end up changing the one above it as well. Once you have separated the two, you can start breaking away the damaged strip with a pry bar working from one end to the other.
Always keep your hand on the strip above where you are applying pressure, to resist it cracking or working loose. You don’t want end up replacing a bottom Hardie siding strip and the one above it because you were in too much of a hurry. Remove any exposed nails and all loose dirt once you have cleared the remains of the bottom strip away.
Fixing a Bottom Hardie Siding Strip – Reinstatement
Measure the length you need before you visit your hardware store for a replacement. If they can cut it to length for you then so much the better. Keep the offcut. You’ll be amazed how soon it comes in handy for your next small job. Purchase a small pack of nails while you are there.
Have a friend help you transport the strip home. Remember to carry it vertically, not flat to avoid it snapping under its own weight. Ask your friend to stay a while and help you slip the new board in position, and square it up before you nail it every twelve inches, top and bottom. Then caulk the edges to ensure a weather tight fit. Smear caulk over the nail heads too. so the paint does not peel off.
After replacing a bottom Hardie siding strip and securing it properly, you just have to wipe it down and then apply matching paint. Then you can step back and admire what you achieved without help except some good advice.
However, if the job turns out more complex, then give SilverLine Exterior Solutions a call on 604-942-0488. We are Vancouver Hardie siding specialists and we are here to help you.
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Broken Siding Strip: Bart Everson BY CC 2.0
